West Columbia Fire Chief Shares Winter Home Safety and Energy-Saving Tips

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By Terry Ward, West Metro News

WEST COLUMBIA — With more people relying on home heating systems during the winter months, West Columbia Fire Chief Marquis Solomon is encouraging residents to take extra precautions to prevent house fires and stay safe through the colder weather.

“In winter, there are some circumstances that can increase the risk of a house fire,” Solomon said. “The chance for fire may be higher because of home heating methods.”

While heating use increases during winter, Solomon noted there is often a slight decrease in house fires during the holidays because more people are home and able to monitor potential hazards.

Home Heating Safety Tips

Chief Solomon recommends the following precautions when using heaters:

  • Use the correct fuel for your heater to prevent fire or explosions.
  • Keep heaters at least three feet away from anything flammable.
  • Remove clutter from around heaters that could catch fire.

He also warned about the dangers of improper extension cord use.

“Don’t run electrical cords under rugs or furniture, out of windows, or across walkways and sidewalks,” Solomon said. “Avoid daisy-chaining extension cords because they can overheat and become a fire hazard.”

Holiday Fire Safety Tips

Solomon encouraged families to make fire safety a priority during the holidays:

  • Keep decorations at least three feet away from heat sources such as fireplaces and candles.
  • Never leave candles burning overnight.
  • Water natural Christmas trees daily to prevent them from drying out and becoming highly flammable.
  • Turn off holiday lights when leaving home or going to sleep. Most deadly fires occur while people are asleep.
  • Use as few extension cords as possible.
  • Do not place electronic devices under pillows or blankets where they can overheat.
  • Install and maintain working smoke alarms in every bedroom and on every level of the home, and test them regularly. The West Columbia Fire Department will install smoke alarms for residents who do not have access to them.
  • Turn off space heaters before leaving a room and discard any damaged or worn decorations.
  • If your home uses natural gas, install carbon monoxide detectors in as many rooms as possible.

Winter Energy Efficiency Tips

Dominion Energy also offers tips to help residents save energy and reduce heating costs:

  • Set your thermostat to 68 degrees during the day.
  • Lower the temperature when sleeping or away from home.
  • Wear extra layers to stay warm.
  • Seal drafts by caulking around doors and windows.
  • Replace air filters monthly.
  • Open curtains during the day to let sunlight naturally warm your home.
  • Make sure your attic has at least 12 inches of insulation.

Chief Solomon said the holiday season should be filled with warmth, family and joy — not tragedy — and that practicing fire safety and energy efficiency can help families stay safe and comfortable all winter long.